Acting Defense Secretary Shanahan has arrived in Baghdad to talk to the Iraqis about their "security concerns", the "political dynamics that they're facing and then, and based on that, we'll obviously factor that into our planning. "

More than 200 members of a Da'ish terror network in Ramadi have been detained by Iraq's intelligence apparatus in one of the biggest anti-terror operations carried out in recent memory. This is a massive blow to Da'ish and its long-term revival in Anbar province.

In Iraq, 77 MPs sign petition calling for end of US-Iraq strategic agreement. Uncertainty of total number of US forces in Iraq and their true mission in light of recent statement by US president that US forces are in Iraq to observe Iran.

Reports that a Peshmerga force has resumed operations at a barracks outside of Kifri that was previously vacated during the law enforcement operation of October 2017. This site was never taken by Iraqi Forces and lies on the road between Kifri and Tuz.

Daesh claims killing an Interior Ministry official and 2 of his guards about 20km north of Rutbah, in Anbar province. US special forces were seen by locals coming into the area, probably tracking Daesh fighters.

Iran Revolutionary Guards: Tehran will not withdraw its forces from the region, dismissing U.S. calls that Iranian regional influence should be curbed. "The enemy cannot ask us to leave the region. They must leave the region"

Barzani said Erdogan will use the buffer zone to drive Kurds out. "If the fighters belonging to Turkey and the militants belonging to Erdogan will be there, they will be fighting for the land. It's not a safe zone, it's a warzone."

In Iraq, security source says US forces conduct reconnaissance of international highway in west Anbar Province and areas Kilometer 160 and Kilometer 210 between Qaim and Rawah. Iraqi forces had no prior knowledge of US reconnaissance

We respect your privacy. Our website is using cookies for 3rd party advertising, analytics, language and user settings. By continuing to browse our site you agree to our use of cookies, Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.